LITTLE ROCK (AP) — Four finalists from around the state have been named for Arkansas’ annual teacher of the year award.

Gov. Mike Beebe and state education officials on Monday recognized the finalists at a ceremony at the state Capitol. The four were among 16 regional finalists.

The four finalists are Jonathan Crossley of Palestine Wheatley High School, Lisa Gray of Sunnymede Elementary School, Sue Johnston of Eagle Mountain Magnet School and Debra Lamb of Har-Ber High School.

The Arkansas Teacher of the Year Selection Review Commission will conduct site visits and interviews with the four finalists over the next two weeks, and the top teacher will be named at a surprise notification event.

Each of the 16 regional finalists received a check from the Walton Family Foundation.